This discussion thread was locked as off-topic by DonViejo (a host of the Latest Breaking News forum).

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer

Political drama is brewing in the First Congressional District.

Richard Lazer, Mayor Kenney’s right-hand man and deputy mayor of labor, is being wooed by union leaders to run for the seat that local Democratic party boss U.S. Rep. Bob Brady has held for two decades.

Lazer, who grew up in Brady’s district and has had a longtime relationship with the congressman, said he was “seriously considering” it.

But the reason behind this potential move remains a mystery. Many in Philadelphia’s political circles wonder whether Brady is scheming to install Lazer as his successor, while others speculate that the building-trades unions see Brady as vulnerable and want to make a power move.

1. This is going to be interesting this year here in Philly with that district

There is a long history regarding the 1st Congressional District here (notably pre-2000 & 2010 redistricting).... before Brady got installed in the seat 20 years ago. I.e., it is very political and notably due to black constituency here (and apparent perceived "trade offs" ).

I.e., the seat incorporated areas of the city that made it majority-black, allowing for the potential of a 2nd black congress person to be elected (in addition to Fattah in the 2nd). But with the Rendell "machine" at the time when Foglietta had the seat and resigned to become the Ambassador to Ialy, something else was "given" to someone in exchange for installing Brady in that seat (and since that time, the district boundaries have been redrawn twice).

In total, the 1st congressional district is still 63% minority (black/hispanic/asian), so it will be interesting if others decide to put their hats in the ring. At no time would a Republican get the seat although he was challenged by one the last go-around that gave him a bit of a run for his money.